My dad passed away when I was 13. I’m writing this now at 16. I’ve grown a lot since then.

My dad passed away when I was 13. I’m writing this now at 16. I’ve grown a lot since then. At the time, I didn’t really have the chance to understand or process such a painful moment. Every single day, I think about him. And every day, this memoir website has been on my mind. I couldn’t leave without writing something.

I wanted to leave a message to show how much he meant to me. I miss him so much. I always wonder how life would be if he was still here. I know things would be different. But even though he’s gone, I’m still here and I’m doing okay. My dad was one of the kindest people I’ve ever known. He was so sweet, so caring, and always put family first. He had such a warm heart and always made sure we were okay. His love was strong, and his presence made everyone feel safe.

A part of me, the younger me, still misses him deeply. My inner child still wishes he was here. I miss his hugs, his voice, and the way he made me feel protected. My mom still loves him so much. She misses him every single day. We all do. Everyone who knew him wishes he could come back. His absence is felt in our home and in our hearts. His memory is still with all of us.

Over these past three years, I’ve made a lot of mistakes. I’ve gone through things I wish he could have helped me through. There were times I felt so lost, just wishing he was there to guide me, to talk to me, to give me advice. I needed him more than ever. November 25, 2022 will always stay in my heart. Now it’s 2025 and I’m 16. It’s been three years without him. Even though life has had its hard moments and I’ve changed in many ways, I’ve kept him with me through it all. I’m still learning how to cope. I’m surviving. I just wish he could see how much I’ve grown. He’ll always be in my heart. I miss him so much. But I know he’d be proud of me. And I’ll keep making him proud.

Love always, Your daughter, Liza Taran

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